Biomaterial handling device

ABSTRACT

A biomaterial handling device is described that will provide for functionality for performing both IVF procedures and washing techniques in a single device. Disclosed embodiments provide increased protection to biomaterial samples during processing and handling. Embodiments of the invention reduce labor intensive processes for both IVF and washing treatments and address reduced risks of contamination of biological samples by providing an increasingly sterile environment.

PRIORITY DATA AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

This application claims benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/597,944, entitled “Biomaterial Handling Device,”filed Feb. 13, 2012, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally concerns handling of embryos. Moreparticularly, the present invention relates to an apparatus and processfor performing in vitro fertilization (IVF) and washing techniques.

2. Related Art

Technology-assisted reproduction techniques in which embryos are handledindependently from their mammalian biological source are growing inimportance and frequency of use. Such techniques have great directbenefit to persons unable to have babies through unassisted sexualreproduction. In some instances, such assisted reproduction techniquesare employed to control faster genetic evolution of a mammal, such ascattle or fish, and permitting the genetic characteristics of the singleexceptional mammal to be passed on to far greater numbers of offspringthan would be possible through unassisted sexual reproduction.

Embryo manipulation is becoming more routine due to the development ofgene manipulation, cloning, and in vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques.The overall goal of embryo manipulation may be to increase productionefficiency, especially with regard to reproduction, milk production orproduction of specific milk components, lean tissue growth with reducedfat content and decreased susceptibility to specific diseases. Embryotransfer is also used to introduce or rescue valuable germplasm and topropagate rare breeding animals such as endangered exotic species.

Expense and relatively low success rates place significant burdens onthe use of these assisted reproduction techniques for humans as well asother mammals. In human reproduction, such expense and failure may addemotional as well as economic burdens. In addition, safeguards againstfailures often result in unwanted or unmanageable multiple births, aswell as additional stored embryos which may require maintenance andadditional difficult decision making at some later point in time.Expense is generally a primary concern, for example, in animalreproduction.

Failure rates in reproduction techniques as well as testing and otherembryo handling techniques are attributable primarily to the significanthandling and manipulation of embryos in executing these techniques.Animal reproductive technologies have advanced in recent years, but thephysical tools used in animal reproduction have not changedsignificantly. Fine-bore glass pipettes are still one of the basic toolsof the embryologist. Using standard petri dishes, procedures such as invitro maturation of eggs (IVM), in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryoculture (EC) require picking up and placing individual eggs and embryosseveral times for each procedure.

Such handling and movement from one petri dish to another providessignificant potential for damage or contamination. Perhaps moreimportant, though, is the failure of a stationary embryo in a petri dishto simulate the corresponding natural biological reproduction condition.Some efforts have been made to move embryos in petri dishes viaagitation of the dish, but this is a haphazard approach. Expense is alsocreated here due to the relatively large amount of biological mediumrequired for the manual petri dish conventional embryo handling methods.Bovine embryos are individually handled with pipettes and large,expensive manipulators. Large quantities of biological medium, includinggrowth agents for human embryo culturing, renders the corresponding invitro procedure even more expensive.

Such static culture systems also fail to allow for changing the milieuin the culture medium as the embryo develops. Current culture systemswith flowing medium have limited volumetric culture chambers. However, aconcern exists if the culture volumes are greater than needed and mediumis replenished too quickly. The endogenous growth factors that enhancedevelopment may be diluted out and washed away.

Furthermore, a concern also exists during manual techniques for washingembryos to reduce rates of pathogen transmissions employed in washingsteps (e.g., typical washing steps may include ten washes per embryo).Typical prior-art systems require a laborer to manually monitor andmanipulate embryos from one media to another during washing procedures.This method is not only labor and time intensive, but, may also subjectthe embryos to contaminants during treatment. In addition, once IVF andwashing techniques are complete, it may be further necessary to treatthe embryos in another remote facility. Conventional systems require theembryos to be manually placed in shipping containers for transport.Again, this potentially places the embryos at risk by exposing them tocontaminants or other risks during passage. The same is true when theembryos arrive at the remote location and need to be handled for furthertreatment and/or manipulation.

Thus, there is a need for an improved embryo handling device and methodwhich addresses problems in known embryo handling techniques. Animproved embryo handling device and method should provide for animproved simulation of natural conditions. It should also provide abuilding block upon which larger and/or more powerful and accurateinstruments may be based, such as embryo culturing systems, embryoanalysis systems, embryo storage systems and similar systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to overcome thedeficiencies of the prior art to include a biomaterial handling devicethat will provide for functionality for performing both IVF proceduresand washing techniques in a single device. It is a further goal of thedisclosed embodiments to provide increased protection to biomaterialsamples during processing and handling. Embodiments of the inventionreduce labor intensive processes for IVF and washing treatments andaddress reduced risks of contamination of biological samples byproviding an increasingly sterile environment.

In accordance with a disclosed exemplary embodiment, a biomaterialhandling device is provided that, in at least some aspects of theinvention, comprises a main body portion including an internalreceptacle, a waste chamber connected to the internal receptacle and atleast one output port connected to the waste chamber. An insert may beprovided having an inlet port opening at one end of the insert and awash chamber, wherein the inlet port opening allows access to the washchamber disposed within an interior of the insert. The wash chamberterminates into an opening at a bottom end of the insert; the insertfurther comprises a sealing ring around an exterior circumference of theinsert. The biomaterial handling device may also comprise a removablyattached lid connected to the main body portion for sealing the inletport opening and the output port.

In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, anapparatus is provided for performing an IVF procedure and washingtechnique. The apparatus comprises a main body portion including aninternal receptacle configured to perform the IVF procedure therein. Awaste chamber is connected to the internal receptacle and an output portis connected to the waste chamber. The output port terminates in anoutput port opening, wherein the output port extends from the wastechamber such that the output port opening is fixed at a height betweenan opening of the internal receptacle and the connection of the wastechamber to the receptacle. The main body portion is configured toreceive media into the internal receptacle, through the waste chamberand output port, and out of the output port opening to perform thewashing technique.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus isprovided for performing an IVF procedure and washing technique. Theapparatus comprises a main body portion including an internal receptacleconfigured to perform the IVF procedure therein. A waste chamber isconnected to an opening of the internal receptacle and an output port isconnected to the waste chamber. The output port terminates in an outputport opening, wherein the output port extends from the waste chambersuch that the output port opening is fixed at a height between anopening of the internal receptacle and the connection of the wastechamber to the receptacle. The main body portion is configured toreceive media into the internal receptacle, through the waste chamberand output port, and out of the output port opening to perform thewashing technique.

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, certain embodiments of theinvention in order that the detailed description of the invention hereinmay be better understood, and in order that the present contribution tothe art may be better appreciated. There are, of course, additionalembodiments of the invention that will be described below and which willform the subject matter of the claims appended hereto.

In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of theinvention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is notlimited in its application to the details of construction and to thearrangements of the components set forth in the following description orillustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of embodiments inaddition to those described and of being practiced and carried out invarious ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology andterminology employed herein, as well as in the abstract, are for thepurpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the concept uponwhich this disclosure is based may readily be utilized as a basis forthe designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying outthe several purposes of the present invention. It is important,therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalentconstructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope ofthe present invention.

Still other aspects, features and advantages of the present inventionare readily apparent from the following detailed description, simply byillustrating a number of exemplary embodiments and implementations,including the best mode contemplated for carrying out the presentinvention. The present invention also is capable of other and differentembodiments, and its several details can be modified in variousrespects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentinvention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions are to be regardedas illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitutepart of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of theinvention and, together with the detailed description given below, serveto explain the features of the invention.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the example biomaterialhandling device constructed in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the biomaterial handling deviceof FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates an internal side view of the biomaterial handlingdevice of FIG. 1 in a closed configuration in accordance with anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates the internal side view of the biomaterial handlingdevice of FIG. 3 in an open configuration in accordance with anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5A illustrates a top view of the biomaterial handling device ofFIG. 1 in an open configuration in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the biomaterial handlingdevice taken along line A-A of FIG. 5A in accordance with an embodimentof the invention;

FIG. 5C illustrates a view of the biomaterial handling device takenalong line B-B of FIG. 5B in accordance with an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 5D illustrates a frontal view of the biomaterial handling device ofFIG. 5A in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate the interlocking feature of the biomaterialhandling device for assembling an array of devices in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates an alternate embodiment of the biomaterial handlingdevice of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an another embodiment of abiomaterial handling device having an alternate lid and sealingconfiguration;

FIG. 9 illustrates an internal side view of the biomaterial handlingdevice of FIG. 8 in a closed configuration in accordance with anembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates perspective views of biomaterial handling devices inaccordance with embodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 11 illustrates side views of biomaterial handling devices of FIG.10 in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Definitions

Where the definition of a term departs from the commonly used meaning ofthe term, applicant intends to utilize the definitions provided below,unless specifically indicated.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term an “agar” is meantto refer to a gel made from red algae that is used to culture certaindisease agents in the laboratory. As a gel, an agarose medium is porous.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term an “array” is meantto refer to a systematic arrangement of objects, usually in rows and/orin columns.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term “biomaterialhandling device” is used to describe the entire general embodiment ofthe invention article.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term “in vitrofertilization” (IVF) is a process by which egg cells are fertilized bysperm outside the body.

For the purposes of the present invention, the terms “media” or “washmedia” is meant as a general reference to describe any liquid (typicallybuffered salt solutions) to which gametes or embryos may be exposedincluding, for example, Human Tubal Fluid (HTF) or other media capableof supporting fertilization in vitro.

For the purposes of the present invention, the term “permeability” isused to describe a measure of the ability of a substance (such as aporous material) to allow another substance (such as a gas or fluid) topass through it.

Description

The invention will now be described with reference to the drawingfigures, in which like reference numerals refer to like partsthroughout. The following detailed description is of example embodimentsof the presently claimed invention with references to the accompanyingdrawings. Such description is intended to be illustrative and notlimiting with respect to the scope of the present invention. Suchembodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one of ordinaryskill in the art to practice the subject invention, and it will beunderstood that other embodiments may be practiced with some variationswithout departing from the spirit or scope of the subject invention.

Turning to FIG. 1, the present invention consists of a biomaterialhandling device 10 configured and suitable to perform in vitrofertilization procedures and washing techniques within the device. Thebiomaterial handling device 10 consists of a main body portion 22 and issuitably configured to receive additional components to its externalstructure and throughout its internal structure. The material of mainbody portion 22 includes polystyrene or other suitable material forperforming in vitro fertilization procedures and washing techniques. Thematerial of main body portion 22 is also suitable for withstandingsterilization processes as outlined below.

A lid 12 is affixed to main body portion 22. Lid 12 is configured toreceive a plurality of seals 14, 16 for sealing biomaterial specimenswithin main body portion 22. The material of lid 12 may also includepolystyrene, polypropylene, hi-density polyethylene, McMaster 9218T82,Sefar 07-57/24, Sefar 07/51/33, or other suitable material forperforming in vitro fertilization procedures and washing techniques. Thematerial of lid 12 is also suitable for withstanding sterilizationprocesses as outlined below.

Turning to the exploded view of FIG. 2, an arrangement of lid 12 isdesigned to receive seals 14, 16 via receptacle portions 13 forreceiving corresponding mating portions of seals 14, 16 disposedtherein. Each of seals 14, 16 may simply be snap-fitted into receptacleportions 13. Embodiments for seals 14, 16 provide certain elasticity forsealing lid 12 against portions of main body portion 22. While theaforementioned description is provided for outlining an embodiment forretaining seals 14, 16 to lid 12, other suitable means for retainingseals 14, 16 at disposed locations on lid 12 may be employed. Thematerial of seals 14,16 may include a thermoplastic elastomer, siliconeor other suitable materials for sealing internal components of device10, including being suitable for withstanding sterilization processes asoutlined below. Since liquid media will be introduced within device 10for the purpose of, inter alia, maintaining pH levels of samplesdisposed therein, seals 14, 16 are sufficiently employed to seal againstopenings of biomaterial handling device 10 for the purpose ofmaintaining the aforementioned pH levels.

Disclosed embodiments of lid 12 include a hinge portion 15 for matingwith a hinge receiving portion 21 of main body portion 22. The hingeportion 15 allows for rotational movement of lid 12, thereby permittinglid 12 to assume an open (e.g., see FIG. 4) and closed position (e.g.,see FIG. 3) relative to main body portion 22. In a closed position, aflanged lip portion 17 of lid 12 engages a locking portion 19 of mainbody portion 22 in a snap-fitted arrangement, thereby locking lid 12 tomain body portion 22. Once lid 12 is locked into place against main bodyportion 22, seals 14, 16 seal respective openings along main bodyportion 22, as discussed below.

Main body portion 22 is configured to receive additional components viaan internal receptacle 23. Internal receptacle 23 receives an insert 18and a filter 20 within its cavity through the opening 33 of internalreceptacle 23. Thus, insert 18 and filter 20 is preferably positionedwithin the cavity of internal receptacle 23 and seated therein, asfurther described below. The material of insert 18 includes polystyrene,polypropylene, hi-density polyethylene or other suitable material forperforming in vitro fertilization procedures and washing techniques. Thematerial of insert 18 is also suitable for withstanding sterilizationprocesses as outlined below. Filter 20 may comprise a mesh filtersuitably sized with porous holes so that cumulus cells and sperm may bewashed or separated through the mesh while also retaining eggs orembryos. Filter 20 may be disposed at a bottom opening of insert 18 inorder to prevent leakage and facilitate assembly of biomaterial handlingdevice 10. In some disclosed embodiments, filter 20 may be physicallyattached to bottom opening of insert 18 by an ultrasonically weldedbond. In an alternative embodiment, filter 20 may be thermally welded tothe bottom of insert 18.

In disclosed embodiments, the hole size for the mesh filter 20 may rangefrom approximately 30-70 microns which is sufficiently sized toaccommodate embryos for all mammals subject to IVF procedures andwashing techniques. In a disclosed embodiment, a material of the meshfilter 20 may include one of polyester, nylon, polystyrene, glass,high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, and paper. It isreadily appreciated that for a variety of species, the hole size of themesh filter 20 may be appropriately selected to prevent eggs or embryosfrom passing through into the waste chamber 24 (FIG. 3). Additionalfilters 20, for instance, having different hole dimensions, may beutilized to support IVF procedures and washing techniques for otherspecies, including, for example, fish, amphibians and insects. For fish,the hole size for mesh filter 20 may range from approximately 50-350microns to accommodate embryos subject to IVF procedures and washingtechniques. For amphibians, the hole size for mesh filter 20 may rangefrom approximately 50-500 microns to accommodate embryos subject to IVFprocedures and washing techniques. For insects, the hole size for meshfilter 20 may range from approximately 50-150 microns to accommodateembryos subject to IVF procedures and washing techniques.

Turning to FIGS. 3 and 4, waste chamber 24 is connected to internalreceptacle 23 within the interior of biomaterial handling device 10. Anoutput port 25 having an output port opening 26 is connected to wastechamber 24, such that a unidirectional fluid flow through receptacle 23into waste chamber 24 is configured to exit through output port 25 andout of output port opening 26. While the present embodiment illustratesone output port 25, it is conceivable to provide more than one outputport 25 connected to waste chamber 24 to allow fluid flow throughreceptacle 23 to an exit thereof. In disclosed embodiments, output port25 may extend from waste chamber 24 and terminate at output port opening26. In the disclosed embodiment, the width of insert 18 is in close-fitarrangement with the diameter of internal receptacle 23. In addition,insert 18 may include a lip 28 around the circumference for sealinginsert 18 within internal receptacle 23, as described below. In thedisclosed embodiment, the diameter of filter 20 is also in close-fitarrangement with the diameter of internal receptacle 23. The diameter ofwaste chamber 24 is smaller than the diameter of internal receptacle 23.In an assembled arrangement, the increased diameter of the internalreceptacle 23 provides a flanged area 30 upon which filter 20 and insert18 are seated on top thereof.

Insert 18 comprises a top opening, a bottom opening, and an internalwash chamber 27 disposed within an interior of insert 18. Access tointernal wash chamber 27 occurs through the top opening which isconfigured as inlet port opening 29 at one end of insert 18. Thus,specimens and media may be received through inlet port opening 29 intointernal wash chamber 27 and out of insert 18 via the bottom opening. Indisclosed embodiments, internal wash chamber 27 may terminate at thebottom opening. Inlet port opening 29 is substantially oval or anothershape, i.e., other than round so that when a pipette is inserted withininlet port opening 29, the opening does not conform to the same shape ofthe pipette; thus, the pipette is incapable of forming a seal with theopening. Accordingly, the disclosed embodiment provides the capabilityfor evacuating air from insert 18 in order to decrease any internalpressure to reduce or eliminate a possibility for damaging embryosemployed during IVF and washing procedures by providing the general ovalshape of inlet port opening 29. If inlet port opening 29 was similar inround shape as that of the pipette, a seal might be established whichcould create a pressure inside wash chamber 27. This pressure couldpotentially damage embryos, disposed within wash chamber 27, as media isinjected via the pipette. The pressure could also create a fast flow ofmedia through mesh 20 which could force embryos through mesh 20 causingthem to be lost or damaged. Insert 18 has an opening 31 at the other endin order to allow media to flow through wash chamber 27 into wastechamber 24.

Biomaterial handling device 10 is designed to allow IVF procedures tooccur, for example, within wash chamber 27. Disclosed embodimentsprovide the addition of sperm and eggs through inlet port opening 29.The concentration of sperm may be selected to increase the probabilityof the egg and sperm coming into contact. As the procedure to fertilizeone or more eggs within wash chamber 27 occurs, some sperm may fallthrough filter 20 towards and into waste chamber 24. The distance fromthe position of filter 20 to the bottom of waste chamber 24 may besufficiently designed to facilitate the efforts of sperm to swim back toone or more eggs placed within wash chamber 27, as needed. Thus, theaforementioned distance should not be so great as to impede or make thesperm struggle back up to one or more eggs disposed in wash chamber 27.

Biomaterial handling device 10 is also configured to allow washingtechniques directly throughout the device. Advantages of the disclosedembodiments provide the placement of output port opening 26 at asufficient height above the level of assembled filter 20 in a finalassembly. Thus, as media is introduced and flows through inlet portopening 29, wash chamber 27, waste chamber 24 and output port 23 and outof output port opening 26, the level of media introduced intobiomaterial handling device 10 will never fall below the level of filter20 in a final assembly state. This, in turn, will prevent media fromcompletely running out of device 10 and allowing the eggs/embryos to dryout. The height of output port opening 26 is preferably designed suchthat as media is introduced into the top of wash chamber 27 and flowsthrough device 10, the media is allowed to drip out of output portopening 26 while still maintaining media volume in wash chamber 27.Thus, an important aspect of the disclosed device 10 ensures that therewill always be media in the wash chamber 27 to keep the materialeggs/embryos wet. Otherwise, if the height of output port opening 26 isset too low, then too much media is capable of running out of device 10and below the level of wash chamber 27, thereby allowing theeggs/embryos to dry out. If the height of output port opening 26 is settoo high, then the media will overflow from the top of wash chamber 27,which is contrary to an egg/embryo washing technique. In a preferredembodiment, biomaterial handling device 10 is designed such that thelevel of media introduced into biomaterial handling device 10 willalways stay above filter 20. Specifically, the surface tension createdat inlet port opening 29 ensures the level of the media volume at thetop of insert 18 is relatively uniform. As media is added to inlet portopening 29, the top surface of the media arches upwardly until there isenough pressure to force a droplet out of outlet port opening 26. Whenthe droplet exits out of outlet port opening 26, the top surface of themedia arches inwardly and ready for more media to be added.

FIGS. 5A-5D provide an example of the dimensions for biomaterialhandling device 10 including an embodiment of the positions of, atleast, wash chamber 27, filter 20, waste chamber 24 and waste portopening 26 relative to one another. The dimensions (represented inmillimeters) are exemplary. It is readily appreciated, by those skilledin the art, that the dimensions of device 10 may be adjusted toaccommodate various sizes while maintaining the positional relationshipsbetween, at least, wash chamber 27, filter 20, waste chamber 24 andwaste port opening 26, relative to one another, in order to maintainsufficient media within wash chamber 27 and to prevent overflow from thetop of wash chamber 27.

In general, the volume of media required in wash chamber 27 willdrive/determine the overall dimensions of biomaterial handling device10. Other factors which may influence the overall dimensions mayinclude, but not be limited to: the determination of a prescribed volumeof media necessary to perform IVF; the determination of what volume ofmedia in which an applied amount of sperm becomes too diluted; the scaleof the device relative to the number and types of eggs utilized; andassociated costs of media necessary for performing washing techniques.In a final determination, the positioning of output port opening 26 isbetween the level of inlet port opening 29 and filter 20. An optimalposition of output port opening 26 may also be dependent on materialhydrophobicity, surface tension of the liquid media and geometry ofoutput port opening 26.

Turning to FIGS. 6A-6C, disclosed embodiments of individual biomaterialhandling device 10 members are shown in connection with one another toform an array of biomaterial handling devices 10 (e.g., see FIG. 6C).This feature allows biomaterial handling devices 10 to be groupedtogether, for example, if similar tests or operations are performed foran array of biomaterial handling devices 10 or to keep a batch ofembryos together. The array of biomaterial handling devices 10 may alsobe more easily handled, processed and/or transported if, again, similartests or operations are performed for a cluster of devices 10 or if thedevices need to be transported to another prescribed location. Toprovide the connection between biomaterial handling device 10 members,disclosed embodiments may include a key slot 32 formed on one side ofbiomaterial handling device 10. The key slot 32 may be formed as adepression and is regarded as a receiving portion or female member forinteracting with a corresponding male portion. A key 34 may be formed onan opposite side of biomaterial handling device 10 as a protrusion orbump-out portion from the surface of biomaterial handling device 10. Key34 is regarded as an attaching portion or male member and issufficiently sized to correspond in mating fashion with key slot 32. Ina disclosed embodiment, key 34 may interlock with key slot 32 by snapfit. In another embodiment, key 34 may be designed to slide into keyslot 32. Whatever method is utilized to connect multiple biomaterialhandling devices 10 together, a sufficient interference fit is providedto retain and maintain the devices 10 securely together for processingand handling. Such interference fit may also be reversed by utilizingsufficient force to undo the connection.

Prior to original use, biomaterial handling device 10 may come in twoseparate assemblies. The first assembly my comprise insert 18, filter 20and main body portion 22. The second assembly may comprise lid 12 andseals 14, 16. The first and second assemblies may be sterilizedindependently and fitted together at a preferably sterile location, forexample, by snapping lid 12 on main body portion 22.

In a final and closed assembly containing biomaterial sample(s), asingle biomaterial handling device 10 (e.g., see FIG. 1) or an array ofbiomaterial handling devices 10 (e.g., see FIG. 6C) are sufficientlysealed via lid 12 and seals 14, 16 in connection with main body portion22. Thus, any embryos and media disposed with one or more closedbiomaterial handling devices 10 are protected from contaminants andprotectively sealed, for example, to prevent exposure to the atmosphereor to withstand the rigors of transport to one or more remote locations.In addition, it may be necessary to decontaminate the outside ofbiomaterial handling device 10 after handling and/or transport of thedevice. In conventional systems, such as use with petri dishes, theprocedure would typically require removal of all embryos into anotherstorage system, enactment of decontamination procedures andreapplication of embryos for subsequent treatments. Hence, conventionalmethods tend to be more labor intensive and cost prohibitive. However,in accordance with the presently disclosed embodiments, the entire oneor more biomaterial handling device(s) 10 may be sanitized ordisinfected in the closed configuration without compromising theintegrity of the biomaterial sample(s). This feature allows greaterflexibility in handling and treating samples with the disclosedbiomaterial handling device 10.

For example, should additional treatments require handling and transportof one or more biomaterial handling devices 10 to a remote site, thebiomaterial samples are easily secured and transported withinself-contained biomaterial handling device 10. Once the samples arriveat the prescribed location for subsequent treatments, they remainprotected from sterilizing procedures applied to the exterior ofbiomaterial handling device 10. In one disclosed embodiment, the entirebiomaterial handling device 10 is dipped into a liquid disinfectant(e.g., sterilizing agent) to sterilize the exterior of the device 10.Seals 14, 16 effectively seal inlet port opening 29 and output portopening 26, respectively. In addition, lip 28 acts as a sealing ring toprovide a compression seal to prevent exposure to internal receptacle23. Once properly sterilized, the liquid disinfectant or sterilizingagent is rinsed from biomaterial handling device 10, whereuponbiomaterial handling device 10 is easily opened to expose respectivebiomaterial samples for subsequent treatments under sanitary conditions.Such sanitary conditions are necessary for maintaining the integrity andquality of the biomaterial samples.

In operation, biomaterial handling devices 10 may be prepared byinspecting each device 10 and ensuring that the insert 18 is properlydisposed within internal receptacle 23. The proper placement of thefilter 20 may be verified by inspection via a microscope. Eachbiomaterial handling device 10 may be labeled for identification.Multiple biomaterial handling devices 10 may be connected together in anarray for similar testing techniques, as necessary. Once connected, thebiomaterial handling devices 10 may be placed in an incubator the nightbefore or the morning of a prescribed IVF treatment. During the morningof performing an IVF procedure, approximately 400 μl of media is addedto each biomaterial handling device 10. A pipette tip is insertedthrough the inlet port opening 29 all the way to the filter 20, uponwhich, the media is expelled. Caution is exercised so as not to tip thebiomaterial handling devices 10; otherwise, media may leak out of theoutput port opening. If the biomaterial handling devices 10 and mediawere at room temperature or colder, wait 30 minutes before continuing.If the biomaterial handling devices 10 and media were pre-warmed, wait10 minutes before continuing by adding sperm.

To perform IVF with biomaterial handling device 10, approximately 8 ulof fresh sperm is added to each washer. Caution is taken to wipe anyresidual oil from the pipette tip prior to adding sperm to biomaterialhandling device 10. Clutches are added to each biomaterial handlingdevice 10. An estimate of the number of eggs added to biomaterialhandling device 10 is taken and noted. This estimate may be used tocheck if one is able to retrieve the same number of eggs from therespective biomaterial handling device 10. Wait 30 minutes after the IVFprocedure and secure lid 12 to body 22 of biomaterial handling device10.

To perform a washing procedure, the media is preferably warmed toapproximately 37 degrees C. Biomaterial handling device 10 is removedfrom an incubator and held over a petri dish. Approximately 500 μl ofmedia is introduced into biomaterial handling device 10 via pipette. Theflow rate of the media may be monitored to ensure that too much flowdoes not cause media to overflow out of inlet port opening 29. If theflow rate is too much, this may also cause embryos to pass through or tobecome lodged in filter 20. If the flow rate is too slow, an overly slowflow rate will waste time and unnecessarily expose the media to theatmosphere. This may possibly cause a temperature shock to the embryos,for example, while the incubator is open during the wash procedure. Anywaste received from biomaterial handling device 10 (e.g., via outputport opening 26) may be inspected to see if there are any eggs.

To remove the embryos from biomaterial handling device 10, one may pickup approximately 500 μl of media using a wide bore 1000 μl tip pipette.A step (A) may be performed by: adding approximately 100-150 μl of mediainto the washer. Adding media will cause the embryos to float off filter20. A step (B) may be performed by: using a pipette to drawapproximately 100-150 μl of media out of the washer and into a petridish. Repeat steps (A) and (B) approximately three or four times. Countthe embryos. Refer back to the earlier estimate made when addingclutches. If the number of embryos is close to the estimate, theprocedure may be terminated. If not, the entire procedure for removingembryos may be repeated until more embryos are removed from biomaterialhandling device 10.

Some standard IVF procedures use drops of media that are placed under abarrier in order to limit evaporation of the media. In some examples, alayer of mineral oil is placed over the media, such as, in a petri dish.The petri dish is kept in an incubator and covered with a 5% CO₂, 5% O₂,90% N₂ gas mixture. The mineral oil is CO₂ permeable. There are buffersin the media to maintain pH that require CO₂ to be effective. WithoutCO₂, the pH may drift and, hence, lower the embryo yield.

The applied usage of such standard IVF procedures, including the use oftypical equipment, such as petri dishes still provide significantpotential for damage and/or contamination in addition to the otherchallenges described earlier above. In an effort to address thedescribed need, embodiments of the present invention provide abiomaterial handling device 10 which may be formed (e.g., injectionmolded) out of a gas permeable moisture barrier such as a CO₂ permeablematerial. The CO₂ permeable material may include, for example,polymethlpentene (PMP), silicone or low density polyethylene (LDPE).Thus, in some preferred embodiments, the plastic of the disclosedbiomaterial handling device 10 may include material having a high CO₂permeability and low water permeability.

Turning to FIGS. 8 and 9, another embodiment of the present inventionconsists of a biomaterial handling device 100 configured and suitable toperform in vitro fertilization procedures and washing techniques withinthe device. The biomaterial handling device 100 is configured andconstructed in many of the same ways as the previously describedbiomaterial handling device 10. For example, biomaterial handling device100 consists of a main body portion 122 and is suitably configured toreceive additional components to its external structure and throughoutits internal structure. The material of main body portion 122 mayinclude polystyrene or other suitable material for performing in vitrofertilization procedures and washing techniques. The material of mainbody portion 122 is also suitable for withstanding sterilizationprocesses as outlined below. Thus the particulars of main body portion122 and the internal structure within main body portion 122 issubstantially the same as that of main body portion 22 and itsrespective internal structure of biomaterial handling device 10.Likewise, the same components (such as insert 18) may be received withinand utilized by the internal structure of main body portion 122.Accordingly, the biomaterial handling device 100 may operate similarlyas the previously described biomaterial handling device 10. Thisembodiment of biomaterial handling device 100 may also be constructedout of a material, such as plastic having high CO₂ permeability and lowwater permeability.

Furthermore similar external elements of main body portion 22 may beemployed in and on main body portion 122 including, for example, theability/feature to cluster together one or more biomaterial handlingdevices 100. Accordingly, to provide a connection between biomaterialhandling device 100 members, disclosed embodiments may include a keyslot 132 formed on one side of biomaterial handling device 100. The keyslot 132 may be formed as a depression and is regarded as a receivingportion or female member for interacting with a corresponding maleportion. A key 134 formed on an opposite side of biomaterial handlingdevice 100 as a protrusion or bump-out portion from the surface ofbiomaterial handling device 100. Key 134 is regarded as an attachingportion or male member and is sufficiently sized to correspond in matingfashion with key slot 132. Key 134 may interlock with key slot 132 bysnap fit. In another embodiment, key 134 may be designed to slide intokey slot 132. Whatever method is utilized to connect multiplebiomaterial handling devices 100 together, a sufficient interference fitis provided to retain and maintain the devices 100 securely together forprocessing and handling in a similar manner and fashion as describedwith respect to multiple biomaterial handling devices 10. Suchinterference fit may also be reversed by utilizing sufficient force toundo the connection.

A lid 112 may be affixed to main body portion 122 in a similararrangement as described for biomaterial handling device 10 above. Lid112 is configured to receive a plurality of seals 116, 117 for sealingbiomaterial specimens within main body portion 122. The material of lid112 may also include polystyrene, polypropylene, hi-density polyethyleneor other suitable material for performing in vitro fertilizationprocedures and washing techniques. The material of lid 12 is alsosuitable for withstanding sterilization processes as outlined below.

As demonstrated more clearly in FIGS. 10 and 11, the configuration inthe top surface 119 of lid 112, however, is different than lid 12 ofbiomaterial handling device 10. Lid 112 of biomaterial handling device100 includes an access port or hole 113. A membrane 114 may be disposed,for example, in a fixed fitted arrangement within access port or hole113. Membrane 114 performs as a gas permeable moisture barrier sealeffectively acting as a high CO₂ permeable and low water permeablebarrier seal. Hence, the gas permeable moisture barrier seal of member114 allows CO₂ exchange but limits evaporation. Examples of materialsutilized as membrane 114 include silicone, rubber, low-densitypolyethylene (LDPE), polymethylpentene (PMP), polytetrafluoroethylene(PTFE), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and 4titude 4ti-0512 Gas PermeableMoisture Barrier Seal.

Membrane 114 may be affixed in any suitable manner within access port orhole 113. This may include, for example, heat sealing or adhesivesecurement of membrane 114 to the structure of the access port or hole113. Disclosed embodiments of membrane 114 are preferably sterile andmay be peelable and/or pierceable. Membrane 114 may be sufficient tohave a seal integrity range of −20° C. to 80° C. including applicationsin Eukaryotic cell culture, bacterial culture, and long-term live cellassays. Permeability characteristics of the membrane 114 material may beas follows:

Water: approximately >1 gram/m²d·bar

O₂: approximately 2900 cm³/m²d·bar

CO₂: approximately 4700 cm³/m²d·bar

In an assembled configuration the attached hinged configuration 115allows for rotational movement of lid 112, thereby permitting lid 112 toassume an open and closed position relative to main body portion 22. Ina closed position, a flanged lip portion of lid 112 engages a lockingportion of main body portion 122 in a snap-fitted arrangement, therebylocking lid 112 to main body portion 122 in a similar fashion asdescribed with biomaterial handling device 10. Once lid 112 is lockedinto place against main body portion 122, membrane 114 abuts inlet portopening 29 of insert 18 to seal media within biomaterial handling device100 such as in wash chamber 27 or waste chamber 24. At the same timeseals 116 operate in a similar fashion as seals 16 (of biomaterialhandling device 10), i.e., to seal respective openings along main bodyportion 122.

In an alternate arrangement of biomaterial handling device 100, membrane114 may be omitted from access port or hole 113. In this arrangement,once media is inserted within wash chamber of 27 of insert 18, and lid112 is affixed to main body portion 122 in a closed arrangement, apermeable moisture barrier seal may be applied directly to the topsurface of the media through the access port or hole 113. For example,mineral oil may be applied to the top surface of the media toeffectively act as the permeable moisture barrier seal. Thus, a high CO₂permeable and low water permeable barrier seal is employed by depositingthe same within access port or hole 113 of bio biomaterial handlingdevice 100. The CO₂ permeable and low water permeable barrier seal maybecome self-sealant along edges 121 within access port or hole 113. In adisclosed embodiment, access port or hole 113 may include a ledgeportion 123 disposed, for example, within an inner radius of the port orhole 113. Ledge portion 123 may accommodate overflow of the appliedpermeable moisture barrier seal, for example, disposed within accessport or hole 113 and facilitate sealing of the permeable moisturebarrier seal along surfaces and edges of ledge portion 123. In thismanner, any overflow of the applied permeable moisture barrier seal iscontained within port or hole 113 along surfaces and edges of ledgeportion 123. Other examples of permeable moisture barrier seals mayinclude materials such as agar and sodium alginate.

Thus, disclosed embodiments of the present invention provide distinctadvantages over prior-art systems. Biomaterial handling device 10provides a single device for performing IVF procedures and washingtechniques. In a first washing function, biomaterial handling device 10of the present invention is fully capable of washing away dead sperm andcumulous cells from a biomaterial sample. In a second washing function,biomaterial handling device 10 of the present invention is also fullycapable of providing a pathogen washing to reduce the pathogen load onembryos. This generally is enacted at a two-cell stage and requires moremedia than in the first washing function. In addition, disclosedembodiments provide a sealing function of biomaterial handling device 10for decontaminating the exterior of the device while effectively sealingand protecting biomaterials disposed therein. Conventional IVF systemsfail to provide each of the distinctive functions as disclosed herein inone system. Embodiments of the present invention provide more accurateresults for performing IVF procedures and washing techniques whilereducing manual labor steps and potential for errors. Doing so providesmore cost-effective treatments and solutions in the development of IVFand washing techniques.

Having described the many embodiments of the present invention indetail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations arepossible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.Furthermore, it should be appreciated that all examples in the presentdisclosure, while illustrating many embodiments of the invention, areprovided as non-limiting examples and are, therefore, not to be taken aslimiting the various aspects so illustrated.

For example, turning to FIG. 7, while insert 18 facilitates sealinginternal receptacle 23 and managing a pipette in assembly withbiomaterial handling device 10, biomaterial handling device 10 may beutilized at a minimum with main body portion 22 in conjunction withfilter 20. In the disclosed embodiment, main body portion 22 isconfigured to receive filter 20 within its cavity through opening 33 ofinternal receptacle 23. Thus, insert 18 is preferably positioned withinthe cavity of internal receptacle 23 and seated therein. Filter 20 maybe disposed at an opening between internal receptacle 23 and wastechamber 24. In one disclosed configuration, the diameter of wastechamber 24 is smaller than the diameter of internal receptacle 23. In anassembled arrangement, the increased diameter of the internal receptacle23 provides a flanged area 30 upon which filter 20 is seated on topthereof. In select embodiments, filter 20 may be physically attached atthe opening from internal receptacle 23 to waste chamber 24. Forexample, filter 20 may be ultrasonically welded to the flanged area. Inan alternative embodiment, filter 20 may be thermally welded to theflanged area.

Alternatively, in other disclosed embodiments, filter 20 may befabricated as part of insert 18, for example, as part of a unitaryassembly. Even still, additional embodiments may provide insert 18,filter 20 and main body portion 22 fabricated as a one piece assembly.While seals 14, 16, 116, and 117 have been described having certaincharacteristics and shapes, such description is not to be regarded aslimiting the characteristics and shapes of the respective seals. Othercharacteristics and shapes may be employed sufficient to accommodate andeffectively seal the inlet port opening 29 and outlet port opening 26including, for example, any varying dimensions thereof.

While the present invention has been disclosed with references tocertain embodiments, numerous modifications, alterations and changes tothe described embodiments are possible without departing from the spiritand scope of the present invention, as defined in the appended claims.Accordingly, it is intended that the present invention not be limited tothe described embodiments, but that it have the full scope defined bythe language of the following claims and equivalents thereof.

Although the present invention has been fully described in conjunctionwith several embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanyingdrawings, it is to be understood that various changes and modificationsmay be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes andmodifications are to be understood as included within the scope of thepresent invention as defined by the appended claims, unless such changesand modifications depart therefrom.

What is claimed is:
 1. A biomaterial handling device comprising: a mainbody portion comprising: an internal receptacle; a waste chamberconnected to the internal receptacle; at least one output port connectedto the waste chamber; and an insert having an inlet port opening at oneend of the insert and a wash chamber, wherein the inlet port openingallows access to the wash chamber disposed within an interior of theinsert, wherein the wash chamber terminates into an opening at a bottomend of the insert, wherein the insert is disposed within the internalreceptacle.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the insert comprises asealing ring around an exterior circumference of the insert, wherein theinternal receptacle is sealed by the sealing ring.
 3. The device ofclaim 1, further comprising: a removably attached lid connected to themain body portion for sealing the inlet port opening and the outputport.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the output port terminates in anoutput port opening, wherein the output port extends from the wastechamber such that the output port opening is fixed at a height betweenthe inlet port opening and the connection of the wash chamber to theinternal receptacle.
 5. The device of claim 1, wherein the main bodyportion comprises: a gas permeable moisture barrier.
 6. The device ofclaim 5, wherein the gas permeable moisture barrier includes a high CO₂permeability low water permeability material.
 7. The device of claim 5,wherein the gas permeable moisture barrier includes one ofpolymethlpentene (PMP), silicone and low density polyethylene (LDPE). 8.The device of claim 3, wherein the lid includes respective seals forsealing the inlet port opening and the output port.
 9. The device ofclaim 8, wherein the seals comprise a material made from one of athermoplastic elastomer and silicon.
 10. The device of claim 8, whereinthe one of the respective seals is a gas permeable moisture barrier. 11.The device of claim 10, wherein the gas permeable moisture barrier is amembrane disposed in the lid.
 12. The device of claim 11, wherein themembrane is fixed to the lid.
 13. The device of claim 11, wherein thelid comprises an access port and the gas permeable moisture barrier isapplied through the access port and over the inlet port opening.
 14. Thedevice of claim 13, wherein the gas permeable moisture barrier ismineral oil.
 15. The device of claim 13, wherein the gas permeablemoisture barrier forms a seal along edges of the access port.
 16. Thedevice of claim 13, wherein the access port accommodates overflow of thegas permeable moisture barrier.
 17. The device of claim 10, wherein thegas permeable moisture barrier includes a high CO₂ permeable low waterpermeable material.
 18. The device of claim 10, wherein the gaspermeable moisture barrier includes one of polymethlpentene (PMP),silicone and low density polyethylene (LDPE).
 19. The device of claim 3,wherein the lid is pivotably attached to the main body portion.
 20. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein the insert and the main body portion comprisea material made from polystyrene.
 21. The device of claim 3, wherein thelid comprises a material made from one of polystyrene, polypropylene,and hi-density polyethylene.
 22. The device of claim 1, wherein theinlet port opening is generally oval in shape.
 23. The device of claim1, further comprising a filter disposed at a bottom end of the insert,wherein the insert and filter are disposed within the internalreceptacle.
 24. The device of claim 23, wherein the filter is attachedto the insert by one of an ultrasonic weld or a thermal weld.
 25. Thedevice of claim 23, wherein the filter comprises a mesh filter.
 26. Thedevice of claim 25, wherein the mesh filter comprises a hole size in arange from approximately 30-500 microns.
 27. The device of claim 25,wherein the mesh filter comprises a material made from one of polyester,nylon, polystyrene, glass, high-density polyethylene (HDPE),polypropylene, and paper.
 28. The device of claim 1, further comprisinga receiving portion configured into one side of the main body portionand an attaching portion configured on an opposite side of the main bodyportion, wherein the attaching portion of one device attaches to thereceiving portion of another device.
 29. The device of claim 28, whereinmultiple devices are attached to one another via respective attachingportions and receiving portions of the multiple devices to form an arrayof devices.
 30. The device of claim 28, wherein the receiving portioncomprises a female member and the attaching portion comprises a malemember, wherein the male member is sized to correspond to attach to thefemale member in a secure fashion.
 31. The device of claim 30, whereinthe female member and the male member are removably attached.
 32. Thedevice of claim 30, wherein the female member and the male member areattached via interference fit arrangement.
 33. The device of claim 30,wherein the female member and the male member are attached via asnap-fit arrangement.
 34. The device of claim 30, wherein the femalemember comprises a slot configuration and the male member is attached tothe female member by sliding into the slot configuration.
 35. The deviceof claim 30, wherein the female member comprises a key slot and the malemember comprises a protrusion.
 36. An apparatus for performing an IVFprocedure and washing technique, comprising: a main body portioncomprising: an internal receptacle configured to perform the IVFprocedure therein; a waste chamber connected to the internal receptacle;and an output port connected to the waste chamber, the output portterminating in an output port opening, wherein the output port extendsfrom the waste chamber such that the output port opening is fixed at aheight between an opening of the internal receptacle and the connectionof the waste chamber to the receptacle, wherein the main body portion isconfigured to receive media into the internal receptacle, through thewaste chamber and output port, and out of the output port opening toperform the washing technique.
 37. The apparatus of claim 36, furthercomprising: an insert having a wash chamber disposed within an interiorof the insert, wherein the wash chamber terminates into an opening at abottom end of the insert, the insert further comprising a sealing ringaround an exterior circumference of the insert, wherein the insert isdisposed within the internal receptacle and the internal receptacle issealed by the sealing ring.
 38. The apparatus of claim 36, furthercomprising: a removably attached lid connected to the main body portionfor sealing the internal receptacle and the output port opening.
 39. Theapparatus of claim 38, wherein the lid includes respective seals forsealing the internal receptacle and the output port opening.
 40. Theapparatus of claim 39, wherein the seals comprise a material made fromone of a thermoplastic elastomer and silicon.
 41. The device of claim39, wherein the one of the respective seals is a gas permeable moisturebarrier.
 42. The device of claim 41, wherein the gas permeable moisturebarrier is a membrane disposed in the lid.
 43. The device of claim 42,wherein the membrane is fixed to the lid.
 44. The device of claim 42,wherein the lid comprises an access port and the gas permeable moisturebarrier is applied through the access port and over the inlet portopening.
 45. The device of claim 44, wherein the gas permeable moisturebarrier is mineral oil.
 46. The device of claim 44, wherein the gaspermeable moisture barrier forms a seal along edges of the access port.47. The device of claim 44, wherein the access port accommodatesoverflow of the gas permeable moisture barrier.
 48. The device of claim41, wherein the gas permeable moisture barrier includes a high CO₂permeability low water permeability material.
 49. The device of claim41, wherein the gas permeable moisture barrier includes one ofpolymethlpentene (PMP), silicone and low density polyethylene (LDPE).50. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein the lid is pivotably attached tothe main body portion.
 51. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein theinsert, the main body portion and lid comprise a material made fromhi-density polyethylene.
 52. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein theinsert comprises a substantially oval shaped inlet port opening at oneend of the insert, wherein the inlet port opening allows access to thewash chamber.
 53. The apparatus of claim 37, further comprising a filterdisposed at a bottom end of the insert, wherein the attached insert andfilter are disposed within the internal receptacle.
 54. The apparatus ofclaim 53, wherein the filter is attached to the insert by one of anultrasonic weld or a thermal weld.
 55. The apparatus of claim 53,wherein the filter comprises a mesh filter.
 56. The apparatus of claim55, wherein the mesh filter comprises a hole size in a range fromapproximately 30-500 microns.
 57. The apparatus of claim 55, wherein themesh filter comprises a material made from one of polyester, nylon,polystyrene, glass, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene, andpaper.
 58. The apparatus of claim 36, further comprising a receivingportion configured into one side of the main body portion and anattaching portion configured on an opposite side of the main bodyportion, wherein the attaching portion of one apparatus attaches to thereceiving portion of another apparatus.
 59. The apparatus of claim 38,wherein multiple apparatuses are attached to one another via respectiveattaching portions and receiving portions of the multiple apparatuses toform an array of apparatuses.
 60. The apparatus of claim 58, wherein thereceiving portion comprises a female member and the attaching portioncomprises a male member, wherein the male member is sized to correspondto attach to the female member in a secure fashion.
 61. The apparatus ofclaim 60, wherein the female member and the male member are removablyattached.
 62. The apparatus of claim 60, wherein the female member andthe male member are attached via interference fit arrangement.
 63. Theapparatus of claim 60, wherein the female member and the male member areattached via a snap-fit arrangement.
 64. The apparatus of claim 60,wherein the female member comprises a slot configuration and the malemember is attached to the female member by sliding into the slotconfiguration.
 65. The apparatus of claim 60, wherein the female membercomprises a key slot and the male member comprises a protrusion.
 66. Anapparatus for performing an IVF procedure and washing technique,comprising: a main body portion comprising: an internal receptacleconfigured to perform the IVF procedure therein; a waste chamberconnected to an opening of the internal receptacle; and an output portconnected to the waste chamber, the output port terminating in an outputport opening, wherein the output port extends from the waste chambersuch that the output port opening is fixed at a height between anopening of the internal receptacle and the connection of the wastechamber to the receptacle, wherein the main body portion is configuredto receive media into the internal receptacle, through the waste chamberand output port, and out of the output port opening to perform thewashing technique.
 67. The apparatus of claim 66, further comprising afilter disposed at the opening of the internal receptacle.
 68. Theapparatus of claim 66, further comprising: a removably attached lidconnected to the main body portion for sealing the opening of theinternal receptacle.
 69. The device of claim 68, wherein the lidincludes respective seals for sealing the opening of the internalreceptacle and the output port.
 70. The device of claim 69, wherein theone of the respective seals is a gas permeable moisture barrier.
 71. Thedevice of claim 70, wherein the gas permeable moisture barrier is amembrane disposed in the lid.
 72. The device of claim 71, wherein themembrane is fixed to the lid.
 73. The device of claim 70, wherein thelid comprises an access port and the gas permeable moisture barrier isapplied through the access port and over the inlet port opening.
 74. Thedevice of claim 70, wherein the gas permeable moisture barrier ismineral oil.
 75. The device of claim 73, wherein the gas permeablemoisture barrier forms a seal along edges of the access port.
 76. Thedevice of claim 73, wherein the access port accommodates overflow of thegas permeable moisture barrier.
 77. The device of claim 70, wherein thegas permeable moisture barrier includes a high CO₂ permeability lowwater permeability material.
 78. The device of claim 70, wherein the gaspermeable moisture barrier includes one of polymethlpentene (PMP),silicone and low density polyethylene (LDPE).